In New York City, an unspoken, electrifying energy powers the streets. Every block is full of movers and shakers chasing a dream — but amidst the buzz, there are many parts of the city that we often overlook. When you really notice New York, what do you see? For artist Shantell Martin, that awareness shows up through immersive line work and public installations that transform everyday spaces into living conversations. Floral artist Mr. Flower Fantastic finds inspiration through the rhythm and unpredictability of the city itself, while runner, writer, and filmmaker Alexi Pappas often turns to movement outdoors as a way to reconnect with both creativity and clarity. Though their practices look completely different, all three share a similar relationship with New York. It’s one shaped by curiosity, observation, and the small moments most people pass by every day. That perspective sits at the center of Merrell’s “Outside in the City” initiative, which rethinks the idea of what getting outdoors can actually look like in a place like New York. Rather than framing nature as something far away, the campaign focuses on the moments of connection, inspiration, and reset that already exist within everyday city life. To bring that idea into focus, Merrell partnered with Martin, Pappas, and Mr. Flower Fantastic, whose works naturally reflect the experience of engaging with the city more intentionally, whether through art, movement, or exploration. As they moved through New York, Martin, Pappas, and Mr. Flower Fantastic approached the city the same way they approached their creative practices. They're staying open to detours, unexpected moments, and the small details hidden in plain sight. From crowded sidewalks to quieter corners of downtown parks, every walk became part of a larger conversation about how inspiration often reveals itself while simply moving through the city.
SHANTELL MARTIN
Available 06.30.26
ALEXI PAPPAS
Available 06.29.26
MR. FLOWER FANTASTIC
Read More
Read More
Read More
SHANTELL MARTIN
Available 06.30.26
ALEXI PAPPAS
Available 06.29.26
MR. FLOWER FANTASTIC